There are almost a half million people in the city of Atlanta - each with dreams, lives and families that need protecting. The brave, dedicated men and women of the Atlanta Police Department represent and reflect the many diverse communities we serve; and each has a unique perspective on what it means to be a force for positive change in our great city.

Ghirlahnda Buchanan

I served in the Army Reserve for 8 years and always knew that when I got out, I would pursue a career in Law Enforcement. The Army prepared me for the physical and mental requirements of being a Police Officer, so it was an easy transition. My mother joined APD a year before, and I wanted to serve the same great city that she did.

Stephanie Upton

I was a Montgomery, Alabama Police Officer for 5 years, but I really wanted to move to a city that offered more things to do and a better quality of life. APD has a lot more opportunities for growth, the retirement package is much better, and you can become Instructor Certified after only 4 months of training. For me, it wasn't so much about changing the job I was doing, but about finding the city I'd enjoy living and working in.

Jeanet Franklin

After an unpleasant experience as an armored car courier, I knew I wanted to be the one looking for bad guys, rather than them looking for me. I have family members who were nurses, and helping people was something I knew was the right thing to do. APD is a challenging job, so you really have to want it. You won't change the world overnight, but you will make a difference.

Adam Garner

APD offers excellent training and more opportunities to advance my career than most cities' police forces. My experience in the Marines prepared me to look out for my fellow officers, to be given a task and complete it, and to become a better leader overall. Having served in the Marines, I feel like I'm starting out with an advantage, and I'm confident that I have the skills and expertise to be a part of the solution to Atlanta's crime problems.

Erricka Jenkins

I've learned that it takes more than physical strength to be a good Police Officer. Being a woman on the force enables me to use sweetness and thought to solve problems, with the end-result not being to simply over-populate jails. If you have a kind mind, a good heart, and a sweet soul, you can do anything.

Karim Khoury

I graduated from a top-tier, private university with a Public Policy degree, and always wanted to serve my community. I felt it was important to change the perception of what it takes to be a Police Officer, so I joined APD soon after graduation. APD is helping me pay for my Masters Degree in Criminal Justice. I want people in our community to know that I'm here for them, protecting their families and helping them feel safe and secure.

Rebecca Bandy

I always loved hearing the stories of regular people who had extraordinary experiences. I wanted to be just like them, and APD gave me the opportunity to do just that. I came from a small Police Department, where there was not much opportunity for advancement, and not much versatility. The benefits are great, and there are many units you can become a part of. APD's lateral academy is only 6 weeks long, so they recognize the work you've already put into training. To me, the biggest benefit of serving with APD is making life better for the people who can't do it for themselves.

Rico Smith

I retired from the New Orleans Police Department after 23 years. But once you make the decision to make a difference in your community, it's in your blood forever, so I joined APD. When you take a lady by her trembling hand, or see the look on a helpless child's face, and give them the help they need, it's a great feeling of accomplishment and personal satisfaction. As long as you never lose sight of the fact that you're helping people and communities who need you, you will be successful at this job.

Shetise Simmons

To me, the most important benefit of serving with APD are the advancement opportunities for minority females. Sure, you have to constantly prove yourself, but there's no other place where your performance is truly recognized by your peers. When people are at their lowest, and I show up and give them the resources and help they need to improve their own lives, I know I am a force for positive change.

Katie Rambler

I've lived in Atlanta all my life and always wanted to be in Law Enforcement. My grandfather served on APD for 30 years, and I saw the compassion and strength he brought to the job. I love this city, and I know together we can make it a lot better. There are limitless opportunities for me to advance my career, learn new skills, and be whatever I want to be. When you know the expectations up front, there are no boundaries except those you create yourself. It's up to us to overcome those obstacles and be the best we can be.